Making Your Own Book Cover, Japanese Style

When you buy books in Japan, you are often asked if you would like a book cover. If so, the staff will kindly fold some brown wrapping paper for your books, with just the proper fit. Because people often read on crowded trains where there is little privacy, it is a handy way to keep your reading habits private. It is also a nice way to prevent your book from being scuffed in a backpack or purse.¹

Similarly, you find many nice premade book covers in Japanese stores, or online. But I think making your own is the best way to do it. If done correctly, it is guaranteed to fit the book properly, and you can personalize it with whatever paper or design you choose.

Recently, I purchased some Japanese book covers from a local antique store, but I was disappointed to find some of them didn’t fit any of my books. Coincidentally, I received some nice wrapping paper, so I decided to put it to good use.

Following these handy instructions, I was able to make a book cover out of it:

The instructions, essentially, require fitting the book to a corner of the paper or fabric, and leave a margin of 5cm on each side. When folding the paper, it’s important to make it flush with the top and bottom of the book. After that, it should fit like a glove.

My book cover above required a couple tries to get it right. I didn’t properly measure the first time, and it was a bit too small. So I had to fold a second time, this time reading the instructions more carefully, and got a satisfying fit. I’ve really enjoyed this book cover once it was complete. Once you learn the technique, I realized that it’s easy enough to make one using any sturdy, foldable paper, or soft fabric. Plus, if you are artistically inclined, you can probably make book-covers that are suitable for the books you are covering. I wish I had that talent. 😅

Anyhow, enjoy!

¹ I have an old, used Star Trek novel whose corner broke off recently, so I can safely say that protecting books, especially legacy used books, is important.